Social Security is the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve and for individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, changes may impact their retirement plans. With some knowledge and a few simple tips, one might save thousands of dollars.

Big changes are coming to Tacoma's West Side--and it will impact University Place as well.

The City of Tacoma Housing Authority is planning to redevelop the James Center North site located across Mildred Street from Tacoma Community College into 300 units of affordable and market-rate multi-family housing units. The project also calls for 30,000 square feet of retail space for 13 businesses.

Chambers Bay Golf Course will be undergoing a few changes over the next few months with plans to reopen in March of 2019. This closure will not affect Chambers Creek Regional Park, but there will be shortened hours for the pro shop and restaurant. These changes are in preparation for the U.S. Open Amateur Four-Ball Championship that will be coming to University Place in 2019.

The images coming out of North Carolina in the last week remind us that Mother Nature can be unpredictable and unrelenting. When disaster strikes, the best way to ensure the safety and survival of loved ones and property is to be prepared.

Curran Apple Orchard was buzzing with activity on Sunday, August 26, as more than 400 people came out to enjoy apple picking and pressing during one of U.P.’s most popular annual community events. The pressers were busy turning out half gallons of beautiful golden cider, with an estimated 400 half gallons filled.

Property owners in University Place can now improve their bottom line when working to provide clean water to our streams and waterways. Rain water running along the surfaces of lawns, driveways, and streets carries pollutants from fertilizers, pet waste, and motor vehicles into storm drains and our local waterways. Many property owners have wanted to do their part to reduce the impact of this runoff, but such improvements can be costly. New rules are now in place to help property owners with this cost.

Do you have a story or memory of the horses in the Curran Apple Orchard? If so, UP for Arts wants to hear about it!

UP for Arts is collecting stories about the horses in conjunction with the “Forever Friends” sculpture project which is currently underway to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Curran Apple Orchard Park.

Avid gardeners know that for vibrant, thriving gardens in the spring, you need to “fall into action.” As part of the City of U.P.’s on-going beautification efforts, residents are encouraged to participate in the annual Patrons of Beautification campaign so that volunteers can do important fall gardening and planting that will ensure a colorful spring in University Place.

If you have unused prescription medications in your home, you are encouraged to dispose of them safely and responsibly so they do not fall into the wrong hands. Prescription drug diversion—when drugs are obtained for uses that are illegal and typically not medically authorized or necessary—is one of the leading factors contributing to our nation’s current opioid epidemic.

On May 30, 2018, the City of University Place will launch the new digital version of Headlines, its long-running community newsletter. The publication will be emailed every two weeks to all addresses the City has on file.

“Our new electronic version of Headlines reflects our commitment to providing our residents and business owners with timely and regular communications,” said Steve Sugg, University Place’s City Manager.

Yes. Solicitation businesses must complete a solicitor license application and submit to the City. The permit is reviewed by various City Department Heads, including the Chief of Police. Additionally, an individual solicitor must receive a background check and approval of the Police Chief.

Are ALL representatives of a soliciting entity required to carry a license?

Your University Place Police team have seen a concerning slight upward burglary trend to date in 2018. It is important for neighbors to safeguard their homes and their neighborhoods.

Burglary in UP March 2017 YTD - 28March 2018 YTD - 43

What can you do? You can become empowered by increasing your personal awareness, apply good prevention strategies and report all suspicious activity by dialing 911. Behavior Recognition is everyone’s responsibility.